“The Packet of Tobacco” is an artwork by Juan Gris, created in the year 1916. Utilizing oil on canvas as the medium, this piece measures 46 by 38 centimeters and is categorized as a still life within the Synthetic Cubism art movement. Currently, the artwork resides in a Private Collection.
The composition of the artwork exhibits the typical characteristics of Synthetic Cubism, a movement known for its construction from a variety of materials and the superimposition of different elements to create depth and texture. In this work, Juan Gris articulates a fragmented and geometric design that represents a packet of tobacco, among other objects that seem to converge at the center of the composition.
The color palette is subdued yet varied, with shades of brown, blue, green, and black interacting to create a harmonious balance. Shapes overlap and intersect with both sharp and soft edges, creating a sense of space and dimension within the flat plane of the canvas. Textural elements are strategically placed to enhance the tactile quality of the depicted subjects. Moreover, the numerals and letters integrated into the design may suggest labels associated with the objects, contributing to the theme of still life. While the artwork eschews realistic representation, it nevertheless reveals the essence of the objects through its abstract approach, inviting contemplation on the interplay between form, color, and text.
